Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: Fiction


Cover art for THE FREEDOM MAZE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 15, 2011

"Multilayered, compassionate and thought-provoking, a timely read on the sesquicentennial of America's Civil War. (Historical fantasy. 12 & up)"
It's 1960, but on the decayed Fairchild sugar plantation in rural Louisiana, vestiges of a grimmer past remain--the old cottage, overgrown garden maze, relations between white and black races. Read full book review >
Cover art for MOON PIE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 8, 2011

"Love conquers all in this big-hearted and heartbreaking story of Martha, Tug and their errant father who, in time, stops acting like a wild gibbon and finds his way home. (Fiction. 9-12)"
British author Mason has conjured a rarity indeed--a tremendously charming, unflinching account of a parent's downward spiral. Read full book review >
Cover art for SECRETS AT SEA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 13, 2011
by Richard Peck, illustrated by Kelly Murphy

"Sheer delight. (final art not seen) (Animal fantasy. 8-12)"
Problem novels, ghost stories, historical fiction--is there anything Newbery Medalist Peck cannot do? Apparently not. Read full book review >
Cover art for LIESL & PO
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
by Lauren Oliver, illustrated by Kei Acedera

"An irresistible read: This book sings. (Fantasy. 8-12)"
A wonderfully imaginative, startlingly moving and at times wickedly funny fantasy. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE INQUISITOR'S APPRENTICE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 3, 2011
by Chris Moriarty, illustrated by Mark Edward Geyer

"A marvelous, mystical romp that doesn't ignore reality. A hint of a possible sequel whets readers' appetite for more: Yes, please! (author's note) (Fantasy. 12 & up)"
Thirteen-year-old Sacha lives in New York City's Lower East Side at the turn of the 20th century. Or does he? Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CHESHIRE CHEESE CAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011

"Readers with great expectations will find them fully satisfied by this tongue-in-cheek romp through a historic public House that is the very opposite of Bleak. (Animal fantasy. 10-12)"
"He was the best of toms. He was the worst of toms." And for all his harsh early life and unnatural dietary preferences, ragged London alley cat Skilley gets to look at a queen, too. Read full book review >